Ford is seeking a new look for its Lincoln line, and our car spy's sneak peek at a prototype—possibly the 2014 Lincoln MKS—shows that the automaker is well on its way.

2014 Lincoln MKS: Car Spy

2014 Lincoln MKS: Car Spy

It's no secret that Ford Motor is determined to change the image of its Lincoln line. One important goal: Distinguish the look of Lincolns from the Ford cars they're based upon, such as the Taurus, Flex and Fusion. Lincoln dealers also want something different—a car that is exclusive to the Lincoln brand. And it appears certain that's exactly what they'll get.

These photos of a future Lincoln, possibly the 2014 model MKS, show that Lincoln is stepping out of its Ford bootstraps. Even though these prototypes are covered in camouflage, the changes slated for the new model are obvious and might even border on the sensational. From the side, the car looks bigger than the current MKS and no longer just like a dressed-up version of the Taurus.

The most striking and obvious change is in the curve of the roofline. Like many competitors, Lincoln is moving to a more streamlined shape when viewed from the side. Up front the hood offers a bulbous profile, indicating more power below. With the flat vertical grille, the front assumes a similar pugnacious stance. Note the headlight assembly that stretches well past the front wheel-well arches, another bow to designs seen in Lincoln's more upscale competitors.

While we can't see the grille and front fascia in definition, it is easy to see that Lincoln has ditched its recent “waterfall” theme in this design. Our guess is that the grille offers a wide oval frame with the thin vertical bars inside. A bumper forms the bottom of the opening, and cuts off the overlong stretch of today's waterfall design.

Check out the extra-wide position of the side mirror. That indicates a strong tumblehome in the straight-on view, and higher sheet metal in the doors.